Professional Association of Canadian Theatres welcomes news of sustained funding to the Canada Council for the Arts

TORONTO, April 2, 2012 /CNW/ - The Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT) welcomes the news that the federal government investment in the Canada Council for the Arts will be sustained going forward. Yesterday's federal budget made clear the important role that the Council plays in the country's social and cultural fabric, and at the same time, being a key economic driver.

"The Canada Council is vital to the success of Canadian theatres, and the economic and cultural contribution they make to communities across this country," said PACT President Eric Coates.  "Canadian Heritage Minister James Moore has been a strong advocate for our sector and we appreciate his leadership in ensuring that the cultural sector is a key part of Canada's plan for prosperity and growth."

PACT also notes that among the federal agencies that will see their funding reduced is the National Arts Centre. "PACT is very concerned about this cut," said Lucy White, Executive Director. "The NAC plays a critical role in our cultural landscape. Reductions could have a negative impact on the theatre community as a whole since the NAC is a major partner in many artistic endeavours across the country."

At a time when theatres across Canada are facing increasing challenges for many reasons, PACT members are heartened to know that they can count on continued federal investment in the work of the Canada Council for the Arts. We are also hopeful that the NAC will be able to secure the necessary resources that it will need to continue to play its important role in fostering Canadian theatre and artists.

The Professional Association of Canadian Theatres is a member-driven organization that serves as the collective voice of professional Canadian theatres.  For the betterment of Canadian theatre, PACT provides leadership, national representation and a variety of programs and practical assistance to member companies, enabling members to do their own creative work.

PACT is a founding member of the Performing Arts Alliance and the Canadian Arts Coalition and works in tandem with other representative bodies in the cultural and not-for-profit sector including the Canadian Arts Summit and others.

Lucy White
Executive Director
[email protected]
416 595-6455 x 11